Real Madrid Turn Attention to Liverpool's Ekitike as Haaland Also Features in Long-Term Plans

Real Madrid have begun casting an eye towards Liverpool's Hugo Ekitike as they map out their attacking options for the coming years, with the French forward having made quite the impression since his arrival on Merseyside.

The Reds' summer recruitment drive saw them splash over £400m on fresh talent, with Ekitike arriving from Eintracht Frankfurt for £79m alongside fellow new arrivals Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. While some of that investment has taken time to bear fruit, the former Frankfurt man has hit the ground running.

In 42 appearances across all competitions, Ekitike has notched 18 goals and five assists, with 32 of those outings coming in Arne Slot's first XI. His recent performances—particularly during Isak's spell on the sidelines—have not gone unnoticed on the continent, with the 24-year-old now registering firmly on Real Madrid's radar as they consider their long-term succession planning up front.

According to reports, Ekitike has "climbed sharply up their internal rankings in recent months," with sources suggesting the Whites view him as one of the most promising young strikers in world football. However, any potential move remains firmly in the future, with Real Madrid not expected to make any concrete move in the near term. The Madrid outfit have also earmarked Manchester City's Erling Haaland as part of their forward planning beyond 2026.

The quality of Ekitike's performances has earned plaudits from unexpected quarters. Wayne Rooney recently singled out the Liverpool man for particular praise, ranking him alongside Sunderland's Granit Xhaka as one of the Premier League's standout signings this season.

"Ekitike and Xhaka at Sunderland have probably been the two best signings in the Premier League," the Manchester United legend said. "I really enjoy watching Ekitike play."

Rooney was particularly taken with the forward's movement and intelligence off the ball. "He's not a number nine, he's not a number 10. He drifts out wide, he gets on the ball, brings players into the game and he can score goals," he explained. "So he's got a bit of everything really."

The former England skipper also highlighted what sets Ekitike apart—a self-assured presence that suggests he belongs at the highest level. "He's got that swagger about him which I think you need to be at that top-level," Rooney noted, contrasting the Liverpool forward's composed demeanour with other emerging talents who appear to need more guidance during matches.

Rooney was particularly effusive about one specific moment, describing a second-half strike against Newcastle as a reminder of Romario's instinctive finishing. "A little toe-poke goal but it's instinctive," he said. "He is the type of player I like to watch."